Things to consider when renting a home

How can I arrange to view a rental property?
Simply call our office and arrange an appointment to meet a member of Watson Real Estate's Property Management Team at the property.

Can I collect the keys to look through the property?
Property managers are not permitted to give out keys to prospective tenants. We will show you through personally.

How long will my application take to process?
Usually between 24 and 48 hours, depending on how long it takes to follow up references and to contact the property owner. As soon as a decision is made you will be informed, whether your application is approved or not.

Can I offer less rent than the advertised price?
Yes, however you run the risk of another application offering the full price. The owner of the property will always make the final decision.

How can I make sure that my application is accepted?
It is the owner that makes the decision to accept an application however, you can make your application more appealing by ensuring that you have completed all of the sections on the form and have supplied all the additional documentation requested. It is better to supply us with more information than we need, rather than not enough. Any documents that you feel are relevant to your application can be presented e.g. past written references, reference for pets etc...

What information do I need to supply with my application?
Watson Real Estate conducts a thorough check on all of our applications. You will need at least one form of ID, preferably driver's license. Otherwise, the information you provide on the Tenant Application Form will be sufficient.

How much money will I need to move in to a property?
In almost every case you will need bond equivalent to three weeks rent, one weeks rent in advance and the Real Estate Letting Fee - equivalent to one weeks rent plus G.S.T.

How can I pay my rent?
We will set up an automatic payment. If rent misses you can pay by cash, EFTPOS or cheque at our office.

What happens if I can't pay my rent?
Failure to pay your rent by the due date is a breach of your tenancy agreement. As such, you will be issued with a Notice of Breach for Non-Payment of Rent. This cannot be avoided, however if you are having temporary financial difficulties contact your property manager so they are aware of your situation and can keep the owner of the property informed.

What do I do if I need urgent maintenance?
Watson Real Estate's property managers are contactable 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, for emergency situations. Call the Watson Real Estate office number, 06 353 1925, or contact the emergency number given on the answerphone.

Do I have to do the lawns and keep the gardens?
Yes. However, let us know if this is potentially a problem. We can provide you with cost effective contractors as an alternative.

Do I need to get my own insurance?
Yes. You are responsible for insuring your own belongings.

If you have any questions that are not covered please contact us with your query and a member of our Property Management Team will be happy to assist you in any way possible.